Hotel Xoai

The breakfast area is on the upper level, with a kitchen serving a basic complementary breakfast. There were plenty of tables and chairs, potted plants, and a relaxed feel, with views over the city. I’d come back to the Hotel Xoai if I’m in Cần Thơ again. I stayed for just two days and chose the budget room. It was completely adequate for what I needed, very clean, and had a comfortable double bed, fan, air conditioner, and telephone. There was no other furniture or television, but most programmes are in Vietnamese, so that wasn’t an issue for me. This is the first hotel I’ve stayed in with really hot water in the bathroom, supplied by the solar heating system on the roof. The hotel is less than 10 years old, well maintained, and very clean. I got a warm welcome when I entered. The receptionist was excellent, quickly checked me in using good English, and gave me a lot of other information to consider. The other staff seemed just as efficient and helpful toward their customers.

I laughed at the 220.000 price once I saw the room and walked out. In the standard room, the bed is against three walls, with barely enough space by the last one for the door to open. From the bed, it’s only two steps to the bathroom. It reminded me of a Japanese cube room. I can’t understand why reviews don’t mention how ridiculously small these rooms are. I found another hotel nearby, there are plenty around town, paid 300.000, and got a decent-sized room with a laptop table, clothes rack, refrigerator, water kettle, and a view. That’s what I call a hotel room.

The staff were pleasant and helpful, and they let us look at the room before we agreed to take it. We already knew the rooms were small. Breakfast was just bread and jam, and the A/C was okay, though not great. It’s about a 30-minute walk to the river and all the action, with few nearby shops for supplies. The price was cheap, so I can’t really complain.

We arrived at 0h30 am and left at 3h30 am without any problem. The hotel is quiet and centrally located. Our room for two was a little small, but clean and practical, with air-con, fans, hot shower, plugs, sink, and toilets. Breakfast was included, though we didn’t try it. I recommend it. Motorbike rental is through a third party and charged by the full day.